A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Season 1 Episode 1 Review: The Hedge Knight

HBO’s newest A Song of Ice and Fire adaptation, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, might just be its best yet.

Based on the book with the same name, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms chronicles the tales of Ser Duncan the Tall (primarily known as Dunk) and his squire, a young boy named Egg. 

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Season 1 Episode 1, “The Hedge Knight,” is not particularly eventful, but it is a strong premiere, containing critical elements that set up a compelling story. 

It is evident that George R.R. Martin is involved with the show, given the accuracy of the adaptation thus far. Although there are some significant changes, they only strengthen the narrative.

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms‘ accuracy allows the actors to breathe life into these iconic characters in the best way possible. For readers, it is like watching words come to life on screen.

Peter Claffey and Dexter Sol Ansell embody Dunk and Egg so well that it is as if they were born to play them.

Claffey’s charming Irish accent uniquely emphasizes Dunk’s status as a hedge knight, notably different from most knights. It helps to establish Dunk as a commoner from King’s Landing’s Flea Bottom, whereas most knights have nobility backgrounds.

Claffey’s performance is compelling as well. His ability to step into Dunk’s shoes with apparent ease makes it easy for audiences to root for his character.

Even though Dexter Sol Ansell does not have a significant amount of screen time on “The Hedge Knight,” his sweet and innocent portrayal of Egg makes his performance an episode highlight.

Dunk and Egg’s dynamic is wholesome and the soul of the story. It is critical that the actors not only embody their characters but also have the heartwarming chemistry to bring this brotherly relationship to life.

Thankfully, Claffey and Ansell’s dynamic on screen is absolute magic. The rest of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms will likely follow their lead, making it the best A Song of Ice and Fire adaptation yet.

Lyonel Baratheon: But it’s a great honor to test oneself against a worthy foe.

Daniel Ings’ performance as Lyonel Baratheon is another notable focal point on “The Hedge Knight.”

It is especially a treat to watch Dunk and Lyonel Baratheon interact earlier on screen than they do in the novella—a bold and excellent choice that will pay off in the future.

Claffey and Ings’ portrayal of Dunk and Lyonel’s boisterous dynamic balances the episode’s stakes with brazen humor.

Lyonel Baratheon: A knight without a horse is no knight at all.

One of the greatest in adapting a novella into a TV show is ensuring the narrative is paced thoroughly to keep audiences engaged without deviating from the source material.

Thankfully, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms easily overcomes this challenge by having Dunk voice his thoughts aloud while following his every move.

This narrative choice works well with a character as complex and interesting as Dunk. It also helps his characterization, illustrating who he is and his qualities, dreams, and conflicts.

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Season 1 Episode 1, “The Hedge Knight,” has a strong score composed by Dan Romer. Romer has composed well-known projects such as Dear Evan Hansen (movie adaptation), Luca, The Good Doctor, and Superman & Lois.

Even though “The Hedge Knight” might not seem as strong as the Game of Thrones or House of the Dragon pilot episodes, it is easily the most faithful to the source material. 

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms should not be counted out or seen as a lesser show, given that it is just the beginning, and the narrative only gets better from here on out.  

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A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms airs Sundays at 10/9c on HBO.

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